Water Release from Loch Monar Dam
Monar dam is a highly unusual example of a double arch dam set within a spectacular setting in a steep gorge in the upper section of the Strathfarrar valley. It is a key component of the Glen Affric hydro electric scheme, one of the major post-war hydro electric developments by the North of Scotland Hydro electric Board (NoSHEB).
The scheme played a key role in the realisation of the social agenda of NoSHEB by providing power to remote north highland communities.
The dam is the only example of its kind in Britain. Arch dams require specific conditions to be successful, with a requirement for very solid abutment to either side (in the form of a gorge in this case) to withstand the force of the water behind it.
Monar dam formed a key part of the Strathfarrar section of the Affric Cannich hydro electric scheme. The dam plays a key role in providing storage capacity and in regulating the flow of water down the scheme.
The proposal for the construction of the dam was controversial and the expansion in Loch Monar as a consequence of its construction drowned 60 houses and a large area of fertile arable land.
The Affric / Cannich hydro electric scheme was one of a large number of schemes developed in Scotland by the North of Scotland Hydro Electric Board (NoSHEB), formed after 1943 as a nationalised body to oversee the development of Scotland's resources for water power. The scheme played a key role in the realisation of the social agenda of NoSHEB by providing power to a remote community.